East Asia Review

What is a dynasty?

• A type of government with elected officials

• A line of rulers from a single family

• A group of cities under one ruler

• A period of economic decline

Answer explanation

A dynasty refers to a line of rulers from a single family, often maintaining power over generations. This distinguishes it from other forms of governance, such as elected officials or groups of cities.

What was the Shang Dynasty known for?

• Developing the first democracy

• Building the Great Wall

• Writing, bronze casting, and urban development

• Inventing gunpowder

Answer explanation

The Shang Dynasty is renowned for its advancements in writing, bronze casting, and urban development, which laid the foundation for Chinese civilization. The other options do not accurately represent the achievements of this dynasty.

During which years did the Zhou Dynasty rule?

• 1046-256 BCE

• 500-200 BCE

• 1200-800 BCE

• 800-400 BCE

Answer explanation

The Zhou Dynasty ruled from 1046 to 256 BCE, making the correct answer 1046-256 BCE. The other options do not accurately reflect the historical timeline of the Zhou Dynasty.

What philosophy did the Zhou Dynasty develop?

• Confucianism

• Buddhism

• Taoism

• Legalism

Answer explanation

The Zhou Dynasty developed Confucianism, a philosophy emphasizing moral integrity, social harmony, and proper conduct in relationships. It became a foundational ideology in Chinese culture, unlike Buddhism, Taoism, or Legalism.

What is "filial piety"?

• Respect, honor, and care that children are expected to show their parents and ancestors

• A type of government system

• A religious ceremony

• A form of ancient Chinese art

Answer explanation

Filial piety refers to the respect, honor, and care that children are expected to show their parents and ancestors, emphasizing the importance of family relationships in many cultures, particularly in East Asia.

What does the "Mandate of Heaven" concept hold?

• Heaven grants the right to rule to a just and virtuous leader

• The king is chosen by the people

• The ruler is always a descendant of the gods

• The leader must be the strongest warrior

Answer explanation

The "Mandate of Heaven" asserts that a ruler's right to govern is granted by Heaven based on their virtue and just behavior. This concept emphasizes moral leadership rather than descent or strength.

Which dynasty was the first to unify the Chinese empire?

• Han Dynasty

• Ming Dynasty

• Qin Dynasty

• Tang Dynasty

Answer explanation

The Qin Dynasty, which ruled from 221 to 206 BC, was the first to unify the various warring states into a single Chinese empire, establishing a centralized government and standardizing various systems across the region.

During which dynasty did the construction of the Great Wall of China begin?

• Han Dynasty

• Qin Dynasty

• Song Dynasty

• Yuan Dynasty

Answer explanation

The construction of the Great Wall of China began during the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC) as a means to protect against invasions. The Han, Song, and Yuan Dynasties expanded and maintained the wall, but the initial construction started with the Qin.

What was the Silk Road?

• A road made of silk

• A trade route connecting China with the Mediterranean

• A path for silk production

• A modern highway in China

Answer explanation

The Silk Road was a crucial trade route that connected China with the Mediterranean, facilitating the exchange of goods, culture, and ideas, rather than being a physical road made of silk or a modern highway.

Which dynasty is associated with the Silk Road?

• Qin Dynasty

• Han Dynasty

• Zhou Dynasty

• Shang Dynasty

Answer explanation

The Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 220 CE) is closely associated with the Silk Road, as it expanded trade routes that connected China to the West, facilitating cultural and economic exchange.